SASoccermag takes a look back at the week’s Premier League action and examines who stood head and shoulders above the rest to qualify for the best XI of matchday two.
This week’s formation: 4-4-2
Goalkeeper: Tom Heaton
For the second week running Heaton proved key in goal for Burnley as the shot-stopper made an array of top saves to help secure a stunning 2-0 victory over Liverpool. Having hit four against the Gunners last week, Liverpool were frustrated at the hands of Heaton who did well to deny efforts from Firmino and Philipe Coutinho in particular.
Left Back: Cesar Azpilicueta
Azpilicueta was impressive for Chelsea as he did well to keep pace with the dangerous looking Nordin Amabat. The defender also demonstrated an attacking input, linking up well with Eden Hazard down the left flank. The fullback looked comfortable and assured on the ball while he also helped recover possession for his side on several occasions.
Centre Back: Eric Bailly
Bailly continued to impress for Manchester United as he demonstrated an effective blend of ball-playing qualities combine with dynamism and defensive solidity. Showing a surprising turn of pace, the defender made light work of Southampton’s attacking threat while he also showed composure to play the ball out from the back.
Centre Back: John Stones
Stones showed exactly why he is so highly prized by Pep Guardiola on Saturday as the defender produced a masterful performance. Using his pace to good effect and timing numerous challenges to perfection, the centre back made light work of Stoke’s attacking plays, while he also stepped into midfield whenever possible to help with the build-up play.
Right Back: Michail Antonio
Having been asked to play in defence rather than on the wing, Antonio proved more than capable in the position as he helped shut out Bournemouth’s attackers. Never looking troubled, the player proved key to West Ham United’s victory as his attacking instincts helped the Hammers overrun the Cherries late on, with Antonio himself grabbing the winner.
Centre Midfield: Tom Huddlestone
Huddlestone proved key for Hull City as they continued their impressive start to the Premier League with a second win in succession. Huddlestone’s creative input was essential in sparking the Tigres attacking play as the midfielder set up numerous scoring chances, carving Swansea City open several times with his impressive array of passing.
Centre Midfield: Victor Wanyama
Wanyama proved a pillar of strength in Tottenham Hotspur’s midfield as the Kenyan star shut down Crystal Palace’s attacking threat and helped assure dominance in the centre of the park. Frequently outmuscling the opposition in typical fashion, Wanyama was also on hand to head home the winner for his side as the London club sealed all three points.
Left Wing: Raheem Sterling
A touch unfortunate to concede a dubious penalty decision, Sterling continued his bright start to the season with another lively performance. A constant threat with his direct running and trickery on the edge of the area, the wing proved a constant menace as he looked to get in behind the Stoke defence and set up chances for his teammates.
Right Wing: Robert Snodgrass
Snodgrass looked irrepressible at times for Hull as the wing played a hand in both of his side’s goals. Having raced clear on the counter to set up Adama Diomande’s opener, the wing also helped ensure the victory for his side in stoppage time as his initial ball was eventually turned in by substitute Shaun Maloney.
Striker: Cristhian Stuani
Stuani announced himself to the Premier League in style has his scorching effort from range put an unfancied Middlesborough ahead against Sunderland. Following the unstoppable strike, Stuani was on hand again to double the lead before half-time as he finished off a composed piece of play by Alvaro Negredo.
Striker: Sergio Aguero
Aguero continued his sublime form for Manchester City as the Argentine striker netted twice to ensure an ultimately comfortable victory. Having netted from the penalty spot, the forward’s intelligent movement off a free kick enabled him to head home a second while the striker’s tireless running and mazy dribbling also served to wear out the Stoke defence.
